I ran the well-worn path beside the pond
Gazed into the infinite azure sky
You lifted me in mid-stride off my feet
I soared upward weightless in Your grasp
Ascended sunlit shafts between the clouds
Astonished, I gazed into Your welcoming face
Beheld infinite tenderness in Your eyes
My heart leapt when You softly smiled
I felt peace beyond my comprehension
Boldly I reached my arms toward You
Gently You took my calloused hands in Yours
You filled my body with Your golden light
Melted away fear-filled walls around my heart
Thrust Your love into my hardened soul
I felt such wholeness, such peace I cried aloud
Shed tears of gratitude, of complete surrender
I soared with eagles and glided on their wings
You spread me throughout the boundless heaven
Everywhere I looked I found perfection
I dropped my gaze to see the world below
Witnessed people striving to possess and to rule
Broken bodies with bloody heads, arms, and legs
Thievery, rape, murder, drinking, drugging
Encountered hearts filled with fear, anger, desperation
Souls aching to love and be loved
Yet all was just as it was meant to be
You opened my heart to look, then look again
Develop empathy for those who own their shame
I saw sinners and their deeds through new eyes
My heart swelled to bear waves of pain
Could not judge mankind from where I stood
I saw Your face in them and then my own
Showing me my brokenness through others
Mistaken, stumbling, lacking, yet striving
Rising renewed following each fall
You gave me courage to follow my heart
Boldness to learn from my mistakes
Approved of me despite my imperfections
Lifted my guilt and shame for every flaw
Awakened me to heal all through Your help
You awoke me from unseen ignorance
Freed me from my judgments and my pride
Compassion filled my heart for those I saw
While I held them like myself accountable
Understanding and forgiveness dissolved pain
Mine to share Your grace, Your understanding
Your forgiveness and Your gift of rebirth
Awaken me, guide me, send me, use me
You are in my heart and in my soul
I am Yours and You are mine
Forever
© Doug Welpton, M.D.
